What is personal care?
What Is Personal Care?
Personal care refers to activities and routines that individuals perform regularly to maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and overall well-being. These activities can be performed independently or with assistance, depending on a person's needs and abilities.
Common Aspects of Personal Care
- Hygiene: Bathing, showering, washing hands and face, brushing teeth, and grooming (such as shaving or hair care).
- Toileting: Using the toilet, managing continence, and related hygiene.
- Dressing: Choosing appropriate clothing and getting dressed or undressed.
- Eating and Drinking: Preparing food, feeding oneself, and drinking fluids.
- Mobility: Moving around safely, including getting in and out of bed, chairs, or using mobility aids.
- Skincare: Moisturizing, applying sunscreen, or managing skin conditions.
Importance of Personal Care
- Health: Prevents infections and illnesses.
- Dignity: Maintains self-respect and confidence.
- Comfort: Promotes physical and emotional well-being.
Personal care can be provided by individuals themselves, family members, professional caregivers, or healthcare workers, particularly when someone is elderly, disabled, or recovering from illness.